"The really good things are that she was not intimidated at all this year,” Taylor said. “She really made a huge leap mentally and knew she belongs here.

“Her toughness is improving as well. And tactically she is racing smarter.”

While Talbert made significant progress at this year’s competition, Taylor feels there are still improvements to be made to her technique.

“The biggest one in terms of the steeple is her water barrier,” Taylor said. “Her technique was the worst of any of the top girls.

“She lost time and energy every lap and had to sprint to rejoin the lead pack after every water.”

Talbert’s mental preparedness seems to be progressing as well.

“She has also come a long way mentally, yet there is another level of belief and toughness and fight she can get to still,” Taylor said. “A final level.”

Once Talbert mends her weaknesses, Taylor feels she will be a powerful contender.

"We will fix her water barrier technique,” Taylor said. “When she takes the final mental step too, she will be top 10 in the nation for cross country and will contend for the national championship in the steeplechase.

“It's right there for her. She just needs to make the decision. I expect she will."

Gemikal Prude will take his turn representing Lipscomb on Friday as he competes in the finals of the high jump.